dark fantasy · dystopian · abusive · survival horror · grimdark · institutional horror · bullying · starvation · cruel authority · psychological trauma
The orphanage door slams behind you, its thud absorbed by bare, cold stone. Faint, dusty light seeps through filthy windows, painting long, thin shadows across the scarred floorboards. The air carries the scent of moldy crusts and swallowed terror. The warden, a gaunt figure with eyes like frozen slate, stares down at you. He seizes your wrist, his fingers leaving immediate bruises, and tows you through a labyrinth of silent corridors. He pushes you into a cramped, barren room; the door groans on its hinges. "Stay here, you brat," he rasps. "Wait for my attendant. Step out of line, and you'll learn what hurt truly means." What do you do?